L’Union Estate Park,Seychelles

L'Union Estate Park on La Digue is a well-preserved colonial plantation that combines natural beauty with cultural history. The estate preserves 19th-century plantation buildings, a working copra mill and vanilla plantation, and protects coastal habitats and iconic granite formations that are central to Seychelles' natural and tourism heritage.

Places to visit

  • Anse Source d'Argent — the world-famous beach with pink granite boulders and calm shallow water
  • L'Union Estate House (Colonial Plantation Museum)
  • Giant Aldabra tortoise enclosure
  • Historic copra mill and ox-cart area
  • Vanilla plantation and spice garden
  • Scenic walking trails and viewpoints around the estate

Unique Aspects

  • Iconic pink-granite boulders set in a shallow turquoise lagoon — highly photogenic
  • Well-preserved colonial-era plantation buildings and a working copra press
  • Resident Aldabra giant tortoises that visitors can see and sometimes feed
  • Traditional ox-cart rides and demonstrations of plantation-era processes
  • Coastal vegetation and reef-protected snorkeling spots

Things to do

  • Photography and beach time at Anse Source d'Argent
  • Guided or self-guided tours of the plantation museum and copra mill
  • Meeting and learning about giant Aldabra tortoises
  • Snorkeling in the shallow reefs near the beach
  • Cycling and walking the island’s trails (bikes are the main transport on La Digue)
  • Short ox-cart rides and cultural demonstrations
  • Picnics and beach barbecues in designated areas

Best Time to Visit

Shoulder seasons April–May and October–November offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. The drier, windier months from May–September are also comfortable. The wetter season runs November–March and brings more frequent showers and higher humidity.

Weather Conditions

Tropical maritime climate — average temperatures typically range from 24–31°C (75–88°F) year-round. High humidity; brief heavy showers possible, especially during the wet season.

Entry Fees & Permits

Typical opening hours are around 08:00–17:00 (hours may vary). There is a small entry fee to access parts of the estate/Anse Source d'Argent (commonly a modest charge for maintenance and conservation). Fees have varied historically (roughly SCR 50–150 for adults) — check current local information before travel.

Accessibility

L'Union Estate is located on La Digue island. Access: ferry services from Praslin and Mahé (after arriving at Seychelles International Airport on Mahé or Praslin Airport). On La Digue, bicycles and ox-carts are the primary transport; limited car traffic. Paths around the estate and the beach are sandy/rocky and can be uneven — wheelchair access is limited in many areas.

Recommended Duration

Plan 2–4 hours to see the main estate features and Anse Source d'Argent; allow a half-day to full day if you want extended beach time, snorkeling, or a relaxed picnic.

Clothing & Gear Tips

Light, breathable clothing; swimwear and a change of clothes; reef shoes or sturdy sandals for walking on rocks; sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen); insect repellent; refillable water bottle; a waterproof bag for valuables.

Local Food & Souvenirs

Try local specialties like grilled fish, fish curry (kari), coconut-based dishes, and banana chips. Good souvenirs include vanilla pods, copra/coconut products, woven baskets and hats, shell or bead jewelry, and locally made crafts.

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